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| Bexar’s mental health innovations a national model |
| By mysanantonio.com- John Cornyn |
| Published: 01/29/2016 |
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In my time representing Texas, I’ve found that bringing proven solutions from our state to Washington has a positive impact on the entire nation. So when considering how to fix our broken mental health system, it only made sense to first look to the reforms enacted right here at home. More than a decade ago, Bexar County began implementing serious changes to care for the mentally ill and keep its citizens safe. The reforms expanded training for mental health and law enforcement professionals, established health treatment options and post-trial services, and importantly, focused on a collaborative approach that diverted mentally ill individuals to treatment instead of prison. As a result, overcrowded jails have been reduced in size, taxpayers’ dollars have been saved and lives have been changed for the better. Last year, I had the opportunity to witness firsthand just one example of this success story in action. I visited the Center for Health Care Services’ Restoration Center in San Antonio, which is an integrated mental health service center that is now the first stop for police when they have arrested someone who is mentally ill. Through a partnership with Bexar County, the Restoration Center provides support to mentally ill offenders, such as substance abuse treatment programs and job training, to help them recover, and keep them from becoming “frequent fliers” through the criminal justice system. The Center for Health Care Services also partners with nonprofits like Haven for Hope to reduce the broader causes of homelessness in the San Antonio community, giving individuals the hand they need to lead productive lives. Read More. |
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